New PNW Commencement Ceremony plans beginning May 2020
![Austin Richardson is pictured.](https://www.pnw.edu/marketing-communications/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2020/12/AustinRichardsonEngineering-500x600.jpg)
Austin Richardson celebrates his graduation from the College of Engineering and Sciences.
In the proud tradition of celebrating the academic achievements of our students, Purdue University Northwest will invite candidates for graduation from each college to participate with their fellow classmates in commencement ceremonies each semester, beginning in spring 2020.
This is an exciting opportunity for Purdue Northwest students, along with our faculty, to celebrate our shared experiences in and out of the classroom. Students will graduate with their fellow students in their college, school and major.
Commencement ceremonies for all spring 2020 candidates will be held May 8 and May 9, 2020 at the Hammond Sportsplex, 6630 Indianapolis Boulevard. The event marks a new partnership between PNW and the City of Hammond using a brand new facility, which also allows us to host our Graduate Reception in the same venue as our ceremony.
Commencement ceremonies for all fall 2020 candidates will be held December 19 and December 20, 2020 in the H.D. Kesling Gymnasium at the Dworkin Student Services and Activities Complex on the Westville Campus. The reception for graduates and their families will be held in the Dworkin Center Great Hall immediately following the ceremony.
Commencement exercises will be held annually following this pattern: spring Commencement ceremonies and receptions for graduates of all PNW colleges and programs will be held at the Hammond Sportsplex, and fall Commencement ceremonies and receptions for graduates of all PNW colleges and programs will be held at the Dworkin Center in Westville.
Our ceremonies and receptions will be held in two beautiful facilities featuring updated technology, comfort for our students and families, convenient locations near major highways and excellent parking.
Senior leaders discussed this with Student Government Association leadership and Faculty Senate leaders prior to finalizing the decision.
As a premier metropolitan university dedicated to empowering transformational change among our students and our communities, PNW is continually seeking ways to enhance the experience of our students, alumni and supporters. We are PNW Proud!
Thomas L. Keon, Chancellor